Mid Sussex Triathlon is all about taking part - not winning

The Mid Sussex Sprint Triathlon was held at The Triangle, with 59 female and 111 male competitors taking part under social distancing rules.

The event comprises a 400m swim, a 25k bike ride through country lanes in Wineham and Twineham, and a 5k run in Burgess Hill.

About 15 other competitors also participated in a short course triathlon or the aquabike option (swim and cycle only).

This year the focus was on participation not competition, getting everyone back into sport and back to normality.

The weather was fantastic with sunny conditions, boosting the atmosphere.

The event is suitable for experienced triathletes and novices. Mid Sussex club members marshal the event, providing encouragement to competitors around the course.

It is popular with all age groups with more than 50 competitors in the vets 50+ age group and about 30 in the 60+ group.

Covid restrictions changed the logistics, with competitors arriving in small groups. The race was also changed, with the ‘transition’ sections between the swim, bike and run untimed to allow everyone to walk between disciplines and stay socially distanced.

It was relaxing in comparison to previous years.

The winning times were 1.01.41 in the male section and 1.12.43 in the female section, but no prizes were awarded as the focus was not on competition.

All competitors received an attractive medal and refreshments at the finish.

Race director Jo Fleming thanked club members whose collective efforts made the event possible and enjoyable.

Comments from first time triathlon entrants included: “I really enjoyed the event despite the nerves and consequential lack of sleep! What a lovely team you work with – absolutely each and every person was fantastic! As it was my first tri, I learned so much.”

Former race director Steve McMenamin was able to take part this year, having organised the event for many years. He said: “It’s strange to swap roles but it was amazing, from the cowbells that I could hear under the water to all the shouts of encouragement out on the course.”